A COVID-19 infected Victorian couple has been issued Penalty Infringement Notices (PINs) for allegedly breaching a Public Health Order while travelling through NSW on their way to Queensland – taking their total fines to $10,000.
“Earlier this month, the NSW Police Force was notified that a man and woman, who had tested positive to COVID-19, had travelled by road from Melbourne, Victoria, to Queensland through NSW,” NSW Police said in a statement today.
Investigations revealed the pair had taken a route using the Newell Highway, and visited various businesses deemed ‘essential services’, including retail stores, food outlets, and service stations.
The pair also attended a cinema on Macquarie Street, Dubbo, on Wednesday 2 June, which is deemed non-essential activity under the Public Health Act.
“Officers from Orana Mid-Western Police District have since advised the 48-year-old man and 44-year-old woman they will each be issued a $1000 PIN for fail to comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9 – COVID-19,” police said.
The Queensland Police Service are expected to serve the PINs upon the couple on behalf of the NSW Police Force today.
The couple were issued with $8,000 worth of fines last week for allegedly providing false information on their Queensland border declarations.
Anyone with information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of COVID-19-related ministerial directions is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
